The Edo State Government has ordered the immediate closure of three secondary schools in Akoko Edo Local Government Area as part of efforts to protect students, teachers and other school personnel amid prevailing security concerns in the area.
The affected schools are Ososo Grammar School, Ososo; Ososo Comprehensive High School, Ososo; and Makeke Secondary School, Makeke.
Announcing the decision in a statement on Wednesday, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, said the closure would remain in force “with immediate effect and until further notice.”
According to the statement, the decision was taken by Governor Okpebholo “as part of the government’s commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of citizens, particularly students, teachers, and school personnel.”
The government stated that “all academic and non-academic activities in the affected schools are suspended with immediate effect, pending further directives from the government.”
Despite the closure, arrangements have been made to ensure that candidates currently writing the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) are not adversely affected.
The statement explained that “students currently sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will be allowed access to their examination centres under strict security arrangements coordinated by school authorities, security agencies, and community leaders.”
The Edo State Government also issued specific directives to principals of the affected schools to “ensure the safe and orderly release of students to their parents and guardians” and to “secure all school facilities, equipment, and property throughout the closure period.”
In addition, school heads were directed to “maintain regular communication with the Edo State Government, the Chief Inspector of Education, and relevant security agencies” and to “strictly comply with any additional directives issued by the government.”
The government appealed to residents of the affected communities to support ongoing security efforts.
“Parents, guardians, and residents of the affected communities are advised to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperate fully with security agencies as efforts are intensified to maintain peace and ensure public safety,” the statement said.
While reassuring the public of its commitment to resolving the situation, the government said it was taking proactive measures to restore normalcy.
“The Edo State Government assures the public that all necessary measures are being taken to address the situation and restore normal academic activities as soon as conditions permit.”
No further details were provided regarding the circumstances that necessitated the closure of the schools.